Schedule of times:

Why?

As finals week approaches on campus, stress levels rise especially among students. Research shows that using dogs in a therapy setting has multiple benefits including reduced blood pressure and decreased stress levels of participants.*

Therapy dog programs on college campuses around the nation have been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback, therefore we expect to gain positive PR and boost the image of the library.

MSU library is committed to promoting student success, and a therapy dog program will help us do just that.

Who?

MSU library is partnering with Intermountain Therapy Animals (ITA), and only certified therapy dogs and their handlers registered with ITA will participate.

Only well-trained dogs that demonstrate good temperament and reliable, predictable behavior are certified through ITA.

All ITA teams are covered by liability insurance.

Where?

A small area in the far North-West corner of the first floor library commons will be used.

This area is removed from all service points and collections allowing people to avoid interaction with the dogs if they wish.

Handlers will enter through the front doors, go directly to, and stay within the designated area.

What about allergies & fears?

The times and space that dogs are scheduled to be present will be publicized in advance so that people who wish to avoid dogs may do so.

Handlers will be present at all times.

Dogs will be kept on leashes, and stay within the designated area at all times.

Dogs and handlers will be clearly identified by wearing service vests at all times.

Only well-trained dogs that demonstrate good temperament and reliable, predictable behavior are certified through ITA; Only teams certified through ITA will be used; all ITA teams are covered by liability insurance.